From its very inception, "Taking the Stairs & Liking It" has a remarkable origin story: it was inspired by a chance 2005 conversation with none other than President Jimmy Carter. Author Lauren Speeth, PhD, took to heart the nuggets of wisdom Carter shared with her during that serendipitous meeting, and over the years she developed those insights into a seven-step framework for personal growth and positive change.

The result is a sprightly and enthusiastic self-help guide that doubles as a heartfelt tribute to the late President’s legacy. Speeth invites readers on a journey to “look beyond perceived limitations” and discover that they can achieve their dreams, regardless of the obstacles.

Structured around seven guiding “steps,” the book provides a clear pathway toward a richer and more meaningful life. These steps range from clarifying your vision for the future to harnessing your unique talents and passions, building supportive partnerships, cultivating gratitude, and more. Speeth opens with the importance of vision: after all, as the Cheshire Cat famously advised Alice, “If you don’t know where you want to go, then it doesn’t matter which path you take.”

Throughout the chapters, Speeth emphasizes defining what you truly love and where you can make the greatest positive impact. For instance, one step urges readers to identify and leverage their special skills in service of a higher purpose— echoing President Carter’s own practice of volunteering only in roles where his unique talents were genuinely needed. Another step focuses on fostering an “attitude of gratitude,” encouraging readers to find joy in each day and each incremental victory on their journey. Taken together, the seven steps form a coherent philosophy: success and fulfillment are within reach for anyone willing to climb steadily, with integrity and hope, toward their dreams.

One of the distinguishing features of "Taking the Stairs & Liking It" is how it blends personal narrative with practical guidance. Speeth doesn’t present herself as a distant guru, but rather as a fellow traveler who has applied these principles in her own life. The book in fact reads in part like a memoir: Speeth recounts her extraordinary meeting with Carter and even shares anecdotes from her diverse career in technology, music and teaching to illustrate each lesson.

These real-life stories, including encounters with inspiring figures (such as Carter’s wife Rosalynn, who became another source of wisdom and inspiration for Speeth), lend the book a warm, human touch. At the same time, each chapter functions as a mini-workshop in personal development. Speeth offers concrete exercises, reflective questions, and “guideposts” so that readers can actively engage with the material rather than passively absorb it. By the end of each step, it feels as if you’ve done more than read a chapter— you’ve had a coaching session with a trusted mentor, complete with actionable advice to start implementing immediately.

The tone throughout is inviting and encouraging. Speeth writes in an accessible, conversational style that makes complex ideas feel intuitive. She often uses “we” and “you,” creating the sense that she’s right there with the reader, working through challenges together. This inclusive approach, coupled with her evident sincerity and kindness, gives the book an intimate, heart-to-heart quality. It’s easy to imagine Speeth’s voice gently urging you on, celebrating your progress.

Indeed, the author’s deep compassion and optimistic spirit shine on every page, instilling confidence that you can “bring your own amazing life to fruition,” as she promises. Even when addressing life’s hurdles— fear, self-doubt, setbacks— the narrative remains overwhelmingly positive. Rather than dwelling on limitations, Speeth concentrates on possibility thinking and proactive solutions. The result is a guide that feels genuinely caring and uplifting, never pedantic. Readers are likely to come away not only informed but also energized and emotionally buoyed, as if they’ve been cheered on by a very supportive friend.

Stylistically, "Taking the Stairs & Liking It" stands out in the self-help genre for its brisk, easy-to-follow format. The chapters are broken into many short sections (often just a page or two each) with bold subheadings that clearly signpost each new idea. This layout makes the book especially readable; you can dip in and out, or pause to reflect, without losing the thread.

Speeth’s writing is lively and filled with vivid metaphors and references that keep the content engaging. At one moment, she likens resilience in the face of life’s struggles to a willow tree that bends but doesn’t break— a memorable image that encourages flexibility and strength. In another moment, she teaches a simple breathing technique dubbed a “special sigh” to release stress and reset one’s mindset, underscoring the practical nature of her advice.

Furthermore, the book is enriched by an eclectic mix of cultural and historical references. Speeth draws wisdom not only from President Carter’s teachings, but also from ancient philosophers like Seneca and Aristotle and even pop culture icons. A whimsical example: the Cheshire Cat’s warning about knowing one’s destination (mentioned earlier) is used to drive home the necessity of a clear vision. These diverse references— from the halls of ancient Rome to the pages of Lewis Carroll— add color and depth to the reading experience. They reinforce Speeth’s points in relatable ways, and occasionally provide a touch of humor or surprise that keeps the reader turning pages.

Visually, the book also engages the reader. Photographs, graphics, and diagrams pepper the text, bringing concepts to life. In one chapter, Speeth introduces a hand-drawn “Rubric Cube” diagram— a playful visual tool originally created in one of her earlier works— to illustrate how our various passions and skills can align into a purposeful life’s mission.

Elsewhere, personal photos (such as an image of Dr. Donald Hopkins at The Carter Center) serve to connect the advice back to Speeth’s real-world experiences and mentors. These elements give the book a multi-dimensional feel, as if you’re not just reading words but also glimpsing into a scrapbook of an inspirational journey. The design is clear and functional, helping key ideas stand out while also reminding readers that the guidance comes from someone who has “been there” and walked the talk.

Because of its unique blend of heartfelt storytelling and actionable advice, "Taking the Stairs & Liking It" will appeal to a broad range of readers. Certainly, anyone who enjoys personal development or inspirational memoirs will find much to love here. Fans of the late Jimmy Carter will also appreciate how his values and voice echo through the pages— the book in many ways honors his ethic of service, humility and integrity.

At the same time, Speeth’s seven-step program is universally approachable, whether you’re a young professional at a crossroads, a retiree seeking new purpose, or simply someone looking to infuse more meaning and positivity into your daily routine. In today’s tumultuous world, with no shortage of social and personal challenges, Speeth’s message of hope and empowered change is a timely tonic. As one educator noted, this book serves as “a powerful call to action” and a “guide to leading a more meaningful life” in times that sorely need it. Yet the book never preaches or overwhelms; it remains grounded in the idea that big transformations start small— with one person, taking one step.

Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of "Taking the Stairs & Liking It" is that it practices exactly what it preaches. True to the title’s metaphor, Speeth encourages readers to embrace the process of personal growth, even the hard parts, rather than looking for an elevator to instant success. There’s joy to be found in “taking the stairs”— in putting in the effort, day by day, and savoring the progress you make.

By the final chapter, readers will likely find that the “amazing life” promised isn’t a distant fantasy at all, but something tangible they can start building here and now. Speeth’s closing words (imbued with Carter’s enduring influence) remind us that a life of purpose, generosity and joy is within anyone’s grasp. All it takes is the courage to take that first step upward, and the willingness to keep climbing. With this warm and empowering book in hand, you might just find yourself not only taking those stairs— but truly liking it, every step of the way.